A renowned keyboard player and songwriter, best known for his iconic TV theme tunes, including Channel 4's Countdown and Grange Hill, as well as his work with The Shadows.
Composer, performer, and arranger extraordinaire, Alan Hawkshaw is best known for his extensive work in library music, crafting iconic themes for films and television programs that have become synonymous with their respective genres. His impressive repertoire includes the likes of Grange Hill, Countdown, and even the theme song for Just for Laughs Gags.
Born on March 27, 1937, in Leeds, England, Hawkshaw's musical journey began as a printer, but he soon traded in his printing press for a keyboard. He joined the pop group The Crescendos and later became a member of Emile Ford and the Checkmates, establishing himself as a talented musician.
Hawkshaw's big break came when he began working with KPM, a leading production music company, in the 1950s. He went on to compose and record numerous stock tracks that have been used in countless films and TV shows. His music became an integral part of British popular culture, with his themes and scores evoking a sense of nostalgia and timelessness.
He formed the Mohawks band and Rumplestiltskin with fellow session musicians, showcasing his versatility as a composer and performer.
Hawkshaw played piano on The Hollies' 1965 album track "Put Yourself in My Place," featuring a memorable piano solo.
In 1968, he collaborated with David Bowie on the Bowie at the Beeb album, contributing a remarkable solo on "In the Heat of the Morning."
In 1969, Hawkshaw joined The Shadows for a tour of Japan, performing alongside Hank Marvin and the band.
Hawkshaw's work has been recognized with a number one single on the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart with "Here Comes That Sound Again" in 1979, as part of the studio group Love De-Luxe.
Hawkshaw's daughter, Kirsty Hawkshaw, is a successful singer-songwriter and former member of the dance music group Opus III. He has also worked with renowned artists such as Tiësto, Delerium, BT, Seba, and Paradox.
Throughout his illustrious career, Alan Hawkshaw has left an indelible mark on the world of music, television, and film. His contributions to library music have enriched the cinematic experience, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of composers and musicians.
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